Instant Microwave Dhokla

Gujarat is the only vegetarian state in India.  Majority of Gujaratis of are staunch vegetarians.Despite having an extensive coastline for sea food, due influence of Jain vegetarianism and traditional Hinduism.  However, the goodness of millet, yogurt, buttermilk, coconut, groundnut, sesame seeds and jaggery makes sure that this non-meat food is not lacking in proteins.  Cuisine can vary widely in flavor and heat and also changes with the seasonal availability of vegetables,  depending on a given family's tastes as well as the region of Gujarat they are from. North Gujarat, Kathiawad, Kachchh, and Surti Gujarati are the four major regions of Gujarat that all bring their own style to Gujarati food. Many Gujarati dishes are distinctively sweet, salty, and spicy at the same time. 

Dhokla is one such Farsaan from Gujarati Cuisine which never fails to entice Food lovers. Its simplicity and nutritive value is just an added factor apart from the mouth watering taste it offers. And combining this traditional recipe with the modern methods of cooking such as in Microwave makes life even simpler for us. Instant and easy, yet retains all the goodness and spongy texture. Its a hands down way if enjoying your favorite snack at tea time.. instantly :)

Ingredients:
1/2 cup Besan or Chick pea flour
1 tsp Salt 
1 tsp grated ginger 
1 tbsp Oil 
1 tsp Baking Soda


For Garnishing :
Few sprigs of Coriander
Few red chilies
1 tsp Mustard seeds, Cumin seed each 
1 tsp Mustard Oil 

Method:
Combine all ingredients except baking soda and mix well with each other. Keep aside for 15 min.
Combine with Soda and pour into a Microwave Safe Dish. I used a round dish slightly bigger than a bowl. 
Micro on full power for 3 minutes. Take it out and let it rest for 2 min, since it will be very hot and soft. 
Meanwhile, prepare the Seasoning. Heat mustard oil in a pan, splutter Mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Add red dried chilies and fry till light brown. Try not to burn it, so keep the flame low. 
Sizzle it over the warm Dhokla ,Cut it and enjoy warm. 

Notes:
Dont keep it for long as it tends to get hard. You can reheat it but the taste will not be the same. Prefer to prepare the quantity you would require at the moment. 

Linked to Breakfast Recipes event running @ Cooking for all seasons.